R.I.P.

My friend Adam passed away this morning.  He fought the good fight.  I am so sad.  Adam and I went to school together.  As a little girl at St. Jerome's Catholic School, I considered him an "icky boy".  Our dancing teacher, Mrs. Washburn, used to make us dance together.  She'd say.."Mr. Ryan, take Miss Corniola's hand".  Then we would waltz our way around the cafeteria with all the others.  He had sweaty hands! 

As adults, we saw each other every once in awhile.  We had mutual friends that occasionally brought us together for parties, graduations, drag races and other car related events.  His wife is an angel!  She is one of the sweetest, most giving people I've ever met.  She has loved and supported Adam since they first met.  They've had ups and downs, just like everybody....but they stuck it out.  They have a beautiful son, Austyn, who is 16 years old.

In November of 2010, Adam was diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Brain Melanoma.  Apparently, there was a particular "spot" that his wife urged him to get checked out by the dermatologist....but he never did.  He blew it off like most a lot of men do when they are busy taking care of their family and not taking care of themselves.

If there is anything to be learned by this story, it is to use sunscreen....see a dermatologist periodically and make sure you check dark spots and moles to look for changes.  Melanoma is serious.  Melanoma is aggressive.  Melanoma is deadly.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him.  May he rest in peace.  Amen.